TUNISIAN PRESIDENT KAIS SAIED OVERHAULS CABINET AHEAD OF PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS

Mon 26 August 2024:

Tunisian President Kais Saied made a dramatic cabinet reshuffle on Sunday, replacing 19 ministers, including those overseeing foreign and defense affairs. The presidency announced the changes on Facebook, offering no explanation for the sudden overhaul.

This significant reshuffle comes just days after Saied dismissed the former prime minister, as Tunisia prepares for its presidential elections scheduled for October 6. The North African nation is in the midst of heightened political tensions, with Saied seeking a second term in office. He frames his bid for re-election as part of a “war of liberation and self-determination” aimed at building a new republic.

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Criticism Mounts Over Repression of Political Opponents

However, Saied’s presidency has been marred by accusations of increasing authoritarianism. Human Rights Watch recently reported that at least eight prospective candidates for the upcoming election have been prosecuted, convicted, or imprisoned. This crackdown on dissent has raised concerns about the fairness of the election and the lack of checks and balances on Saied’s power.

Opposition Silenced as Election Nears

Among those jailed are key opposition figures, including Abir Moussi and leaders of the centrist Al Joumhouri and social-democratic Democratic Current parties. Critics argue that these actions have effectively removed serious contenders from the presidential race, reducing the election to a mere formality. With only two pre-selected candidates remaining to challenge Saied, the political landscape in Tunisia appears increasingly skewed in favor of the incumbent president.

Uncertain Future for Tunisia’s Presidential Race

As the election approaches, the future of Tunisia’s political stability remains uncertain. With 14 potential candidates barred from running, some due to alleged forgery of ballot signatures, the legitimacy of the upcoming vote is under scrutiny. The recent dismissal of Prime Minister Ahmed Hachani and the subsequent appointment of Kamel Madouri as his replacement further underscore the turbulent political climate in Tunisia.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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